I am a huge fan of the DR-x35 series of radio. I use them for Echolink node radios. I own 2 of the DR-435 and love them mainly for the 9 pin connector on the rear with all the needed signals for EchoLink/IRLP/AllStar and such. The DR-438 does NOT have the 9 pin connector but has a "knockout" (flimsy plastic cover) over the hole where the connector goes. After purchasing part # A100196-ND from Digi-Key, I installed the 9 pin connector with relative ease. I routinely run this radio as a node radio at 25 watts (mid power) with a fan. So far, I am VERY pleased with the DR-438. The transmit and receive audio quality are excellent for the VOIP modes.

This radio is basically an Anytone AT-588 in disguise. Fortunately Alinco didnít just simply relabel the radio, but went to great lengths to make Alinco users feel right at home by improving the front panel and add a much better microphone. No RJ-45 connector, but the way more reliable 8-pin connector.

The strongest point of the radio's is its ability to deal with intermod and other strong out-of-band signals. This radio just doesn't care. Other test results: sensitivity -126 dBm, second harmonics 62 dBm down, third hovering around the noise floor of the analyzer.